No fewer than 13 runners gathered on the Town Hall Hotel steps last night to warm up for this evening’s activity.

We were headed to Cranbrook Community Food Garden, just behind bustling Roman Road, to play gardening catch-up with Janet and Eileen, who spend a huge amount of their time running events and caring for the facilities at this much loved, useful community location.

We warmed up with some dynamic stretches and a few lower body exercises, before stretching out tight pecs and shoulders, a much-needed bit of flexibility work after a day at the desk.

We slowly grew in number as the warm-up continued, and a good-sized group made its way down Old Ford Road, combining chatter and running, well navigated by Simon, ensuring we took in the least busy streets.

On arrival at the Centre, Janet was well prepared for two tasks: one team headed inside for an industrial clean of the well-used trestle tables, and some other table preparation for the next event.

Meanwhile, a larger team (we’d grown further on arrival at Cranbrook) tackled the mounds of leaves in and around the garden, bagging bin liner after bin liner to be taken to the Estate’s many large bins.

The endless squatting, reaching and lifting meant that a workout was had by all, but the catching-up that took place meant the effort was barely felt. After one final, victorious bin-trip, Eileen put the kettle on and tea and squash was enjoyed by the team.

We said our farewells, posing for a final pic, and went our various ways, including a brisk run back to the Hotel for some, to grab belongings before heading home, not forgetting a huge shout-out to our Heather, who tonight hit her 50th good deed :)

What a cracking start to the year.

Next week, we’re invited to Rocky Park, where more willing, productive GoodGym hands are required to help get the garden ready for the Spring…You can sign-up here.

Until then.